PSA revises conversion rates for livestock, poultry products

The state statistical agency has revised a key parameter in estimating the nationwide supply and demand situation in the livestock and poultry sector.

- By JASPER EMMANUEL ARCALAS

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) board has approved the adoption of the revised definitions and conversion rates of carcass and offal of select poultry and livestock animals, including hogs.

The parameters were updated for the first time in 30 years since the PSA adopted the current definitions and conversion rates back in 1995.

The revision will ensure that the statistical figures the PSA produces reflect current industry realities and ensure more accurate policymaking.

Under the updated parameters, the carcass conversion rate of hogs will now be 83 percent from the previous 70 percent. This means that for every 100-kilo hog, about 830 grams of pork are harvested compared to the previous estimate of 700 grams.

The PSA explained that the new definition of pork carcass now includes the head and feet of the hog which were excluded in the old definition. Pork carcass now just excludes offal and blood.